Universal Journal of Sport Sciences
https://www.scipublications.com/journal/index.php/ujss
<p>Universal Journal of Sport Sciences (UJSS) is a peer-reviewed open access journal, provides an international forum for the presentation of research findings and scholarly exchange in the area of Sports and Recreation. The journal has a special focus on sport science, recreation/leisure studies, exercise science and dance studies, human sciences, broadly defined, applied to sport and exercise. Although preference is given to manuscripts presenting the findings of original research, review and methodological pieces will also be considered.</p>en-USUniversal Journal of Sport SciencesACL Tears and the Female Athlete
https://www.scipublications.com/journal/index.php/ujss/article/view/6039
<p>The anterior collateral ligament (ACL) is one of four ligaments in the knee, connecting the tibia and femur and acting as a key stabilizer. Factors influencing these injuries include playing surface, training programs, athlete strength, technique, and gender. Female athletes are at a higher risk of ACL injuries, being four to nine times more likely than males, often due to differences in biomechanics and training patterns. It ss important that rehab focuses on both legs, as overworking the injured leg increases the risk of injuries elsewhere. Prevention training, such as proprioceptive-balance and plyometric agility training, has been shown effectiveness in minimizing ACL injuries. Despite some limitations in research, these programs highlight the importance of improved training techniques. Kinesio taping might help reduce pain but lacks strong evidence for preventing ACL tears.</p>Logan WarrenColin G. Pennington
Copyright (c) 2025 Universal Journal of Sport Sciences
2025-03-182025-03-18Advancing Women's Soccer: Historical Growth and Challenges Concerning Athlete Health and Diversity
https://www.scipublications.com/journal/index.php/ujss/article/view/6102
<p>This exploratory review article synthesizes existing literature on the evolution and increasing significance of women's soccer, particularly in the United States. While acknowledging the sport's progress and the achievements of the U.S. Women's National Team (USWNT), it critically examines two key challenges that impede further advancement: the alarmingly high incidence of knee injuries among female players and the persistent underrepresentation of Black women. The review highlights the biomechanical factors contributing to these issues, emphasizing the need for footwear designed to accommodate the specific anatomical and functional requirements of female athletes. Furthermore, it explores the systemic barriers that contribute to the lack of diversity within the sport, advocating for equitable opportunities and support for Black women. This review concludes by underscoring the necessity for innovative, interdisciplinary approaches to ensure the continued growth and well-being of all participants in women's soccer, and identifies critical areas for future research in kinesiology and related fields.</p>Maxwell PrempehColin G. Pennington
Copyright (c) 2025 Universal Journal of Sport Sciences
2025-05-302025-05-301823Deconstructing Soccer Footwear: An Anatomical Review with Implications for Female Athlete-Specific Design
https://www.scipublications.com/journal/index.php/ujss/article/view/6130
<p>This review article provides a comprehensive anatomical analysis of soccer footwear, delving into the intricate structure and functional roles of its constituent components, including the upper, heel counter, tongue, toe box, outsole/sole plate, studs, and insole. Manufacturing processes influencing these structural elements are also discussed. Current market offerings and patented innovations in soccer cleat technology are examined through a biomechanical lens, highlighting their intended functions and limitations. A critical synthesis of existing knowledge underscores the anatomical and biomechanical distinctions between male and female athletes' feet, arguing for the necessity of sex-specific footwear design. This review culminates in emphasizing the imperative for specifically engineered soccer footwear for female athletes to optimize performance, enhance comfort, and mitigate the elevated risk of lower extremity injuries prevalent in the female game, thereby identifying crucial directions for future research in sports biomechanics and footwear engineering.</p>Maxwell PrempehColin G. Pennington
Copyright (c) 2025 Universal Journal of Sport Sciences
2025-06-252025-06-252430